State lotteries are government-run games where people buy tickets for a chance to win cash prizes. The money collected from ticket sales is often used to fund public services, such as education and infrastructure. Each state in the U.S. has its own lottery rules, games, and prize structures. Players typically choose numbers or opt for a random selection, hoping to match them with the numbers drawn during the lottery drawing. Popular games include scratch-off tickets and larger jackpot games like Powerball and Mega Millions. The odds of winning vary, but many people participate for the excitement and potential rewards.